Process Engineer

Want to help eliminate 15,000+ tons of toxic plastic waste? We’re hiring a Scale-Up Process Engineer at Phoam Labs. Phoam Labs has developed a patented, 100% compostable PLA foam designed to completely replace petroleum-based materials. Born out of research from the University of Minnesota and backed by the MN Cup, we are officially moving from the lab to full commercial scale.

We are looking for a Process Engineer to join us on-site in Eden Prairie, MN, to optimize our extrusion, foaming, and manufacturing systems.

This role is perfect for you if:

• You have a background in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Mechanical Engineering.
• You love hands-on polymer processing, troubleshooting extrusion lines, and analyzing production data.
• You want to see the direct environmental impact of your engineering work every single day.

If you are an engineer who thrives in dynamic, mission-driven startup environments and wants to lead a sustainable manufacturing revolution, let's talk.

Check out the full job details and apply here: [INSERT LINK]

Phoam Labs is a pioneering materials science company on a mission to revolutionize industries by developing sustainable, next-generation replacements for petroleum-based products. Born from groundbreaking bio-based technology developed at the University of Minnesota, our first-to-market milestone began with a compostable alternative to conventional floral foam.

We are a fast-paced, high-impact startup where innovation is at the core of everything we do. As we scale our production capacity and expand our core PLA-based foam technology to tackle wider global material challenges, we are seeking a motivated, hands-on Process Engineer to help us bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and commercial-scale manufacturing.

We are seeking a Process Engineer to drive scale-up, optimization, and day-to-day excellence of our manufacturing processes. Working at our Eden Prairie location, you will play a critical role in expanding our production capacity by working closely with our in-house Operations team and contract manufacturers. The ideal candidate will possess experience in polymer extrusion or foaming, a data-driven mindset, use of AI and a passion for bringing sustainable technologies to a global market.

• Process Scale-Up & Optimization: Develop, optimize, and scale up manufacturing processes for PLA-based compostable foams from pilot scale to full commercial production.
• Equipment & Technical Expertise: Serve as the primary technical expert for extrusion systems, manufacturing hardware, equipment operation, and facility line optimization.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interface directly with the Lead R&D Scientist and materials science teams to translate formulation changes into seamless, efficient production runs.
• Quality Control & Data Analysis: Assist with in-house quality control testing and characterization of manufactured foams. Collect, organize, and analyze large datasets—leveraging AI-driven tools where applicable—to accelerate optimization and report findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Operations & Team Growth: Participate in training manufacturing personnel and technical assistants as production capacity expands.
• Safety & Compliance: Implement, and maintain the highest laboratory and manufacturing safety standards in compliance with federal regulations, including OSHA.
• Intellectual Property & Grants: Support the development and protection of intellectual property for new manufacturing methods. Assist with technical documentation for state and federal research grants (e.g., in collaboration with the University of Minnesota).

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related engineering field.
• Experience: Proven hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, specifically dealing with commercial-scale production, pilot lines, or scale-up operations.
• Technical Agility: Working knowledge of polymer processing, specifically extrusion, molding, or foaming technologies.
• Data & Tech Savvy: Strong organizational skills with a demonstrated ability to leverage modern software or AI applications to accelerate process data analysis and efficiency.
• Startup Mindset: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment, with a willingness to wear multiple hats to achieve team goals.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as a process engineering resource, effectively collaborating with manufacturing, engineering, and business development teams.
• Eligibility: Ability to work in the United States without requiring visa sponsorship.
• Travel: Ability to travel domestically and internationally (